Gaming TV Buyer’s Guide – December 2016

Are you also wondering about this:

What is the best TV for gaming?

That’s probably why you are on this page right now, or should be, since we will now dig deeper into gaming TVs and pinpoint the best TVs for gaming as of December 2016. We included budget options, overall best picks, OLED TVs, 120Hz TVs, 240Hz TVs, 3D TVs, Smart-TVs, SONY TVs, Samsung TVs, LG TVs and even found the best TV for console gaming, so if you really want the best TV for gaming (for your budget and needs), then you are on the right page.

Your display plays a critical role in bringing to you the best gaming action on the Xbox or PS4. Whichever console you have, there are certain things you’ll need know if you’re planning to buy a new TV to complement it. This is where this guide comes in.

Along with the types of games and consoles, the other critical aspects would be extra controllers, accessories like gaming headset or headphone/mic combos, and the audio system (if separate). Not all of these are completely necessary, but most can be helpful in bringing you the richest gameplay possible.

Of all the things you need to ensure when equipping a new gaming station, the most important is to find the best TV that can be optimized for a rousing gaming experience. Although for PC users, we recommend you get the top gaming monitor for your needs instead, since you won’t have trouble with sync issues and ghosting.

Without dragging this any further, we now present the top TVs for gaming in the table down below. We sincerely hope that you find the best TV for gaming in the table below, and if not, let us know of your situation in the comments and we’ll try to find the best gaming TV for you.

What is a good TV for gaming?

It could be you don’t have much time for looking around as there’s a huge maze of TV models in the market. And we get that there may be too much study and searching required to figure out which TV or accessory is best. So we did our own study and gathered the results into this convenient guide.

Which are the best TV sizes for gaming, and what are the advantages of each? Is the size of a TV relevant, and if so how may it affect my enjoyment?

There’s no size which suits everyone’s idea of what’s best, which is why we’d rather spell out the advantages of each model along with the reasons for why it could be a good fit for your needs.

Your personal needs and desires should determine what’s good for your gaming system as much as the level of detailed quality that’s available. Larger screens can present more detailed and deeper images but might not suit your situation, and we all have varied expectations of what comprises a great picture for the money.

Can you assist me in finding an inexpensive model to fit my budget?

In the following list are a number of low- to mid-range TVs which we believe offer gamers the finest picture quality for the price. Although pricier models tend to be superior, less expensive ones can also offer great performance. We’ve included lots of information to help readers make informed choices according to their own budgets.

By now, you may be realizing that there are many factors to think about. So we’ve put in important details which you’ll likely find important in figuring out which TVs would be worthwhile for you to consider. We only wish for you to make an informed buy that pleases you in the end.

Best Gaming TV for Consoles – Short Buying Guide

Although we’ve devised this article to detail models which can be optimized for PS4s and XBOX, it also helps you with a variety of other gaming consoles. Owners of Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360 should find this an equally good source for making informed choices in TVs. Some people also prefer to buy the best portable TV instead.

When newer console generations and accessories are launched, many usually think of upgrading their TVs at sometime midway through their releases. Towards this end, we’ve put in a lot of study and footwork in order to make recommendations for different budgets. As to the question of which model is the best TV for gaming, that’s for you to answer according to your own needs.

Best Budget TV for Gaming

Note that there’s a new 2016 version, the VIZIO D32-D1, just for your information.

This model is close to game nirvana due to two things. First of all, it offers a high-quality LED panel and smart-TV features, and the company is currently the top-ranked brand in smart, internet-ready HDTVs, according to the NPD Group’s 2014 report. The second thing is its great affordability due to its high-value pricing. And just because this gaming-optimized model comes at a budget-friendly price, it doesn’t mean its design is lacking in critical features.

The Full-HD 1080p specification richly supports the highest-quality video for advanced titles such as Forza, which can be very demanding at this resolution. Remember, many budget models are not Full-HD sets and some actually operate in enhanced-720p modes. If you’re going for the capability of an expensive, next-generation Xbox or PlayStation console, you’ll want a display which offers the highest-definition resolutions which your gear can exploit.

One other thing which points to Vizio’s model as a good choice is its Clear-Action 240 fast-motion processing. The VIZIO E32-C1 is the best HDTV for XBOX One for the current price level. With 120 Hz refresh rates and processing enabled, fast-moving imagery in games, as well as sports and action movies, will display more smoothly. The technology eliminates the blurring found in older or cheaper models that can sour your expectations of fluid gameplay.

Features

Full-HD 1080p

120 Hz refresh rate modes

fast-motion processing

Smart-TV support for internet-ready apps

Integrated dual-band wireless networking

Advanced remote

Integrated speaker system

Energy Star-certified

Why you should consider the VIZIO E32-C1 Inexpensive Gaming TV

Vizio’s E32-C1 TV is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users. It can also serve as a secondary gaming display for another console, or as an extra set, that’s well-equipped for use in other rooms.

Note that there is a new 2016 version, the LG 43LH5700, which is also 43-icnhes large. Just so you know.

Bear in mind that this TV isn’t an internet-ready model with an integrated ability to run apps. But it’s a smart choice for users who don’t wish for smart-TV features and are just looking for a decent yet reasonably-priced set that can optimize for gaming.

If you have next-generation XBox or PlayStation consoles then this would be suitable for an inexpensive display to meet your gaming and other needs. It offers the usual Full-HD 1080p support and features an LED-backlit display for enhanced video performance, as well as anti-glare coatings to lessen eye strain from lighting reflections. These panel technologies assist in maintaining good contrast and color fidelity in a brightly-lit room. LG’s model is also Energy Star-certified for efficient operation as reported by many reviewers, which leads to reduced power draw and increased energy savings.

Features

Full-HD 1080p

100 Hz refresh rate modes

LED-backlit display

Antiglare coatings

Energy Star-certified

Why you should consider the LGs 42LF5600 – Top Affordable Gaming TV

Gamers searching for an inexpensive TV without smart features that can nicely complement their Xboxes or PS4s will find this model compelling. If Full-HD 1080p resolution with anti-glare is critical to you along with numerous HDMI and USB connections, a potent integrated speaker system, and good energy efficiency, then this unit should fit your essential needs quite well.

LG’s 42LF5600 has garnered many good Amazon reviews, which should make you confident that you can’t go very wrong with it.

Best 4K TV for Gaming

If you are on the high-end and want the best of the best, you want to settle for a 4K TV. Current-gen consoles like the PS4 Pro (PlayStation 4 Pro) and XBOX One S features 4K resolution support, and future-generation consoles like the upcoming PS Neo (PlayStation Neo) and XBOX Scorpio (Project Scorpio) will support 4K gaming on the high-performance side.

Ah yes, 4K (UHD or Ultra HD) is the next big thing happening for gaming right now and current generation consoles can already handle 4K resolution, although not for gaming. The PlayStation 4 Pro and XBOX One S both feature 4K UHD playback on a 4K TV, so we highly recommend ANY reader to get a 4K TV if you have the budget for it. You won’t regret it. If you own a PS4, it is the best TV for play PS4 on, hands down. Same applies to XBOX One S – the Samsung UN55KS8000 (or another size) is simply the best TV for XBOX One S (XBOX One as well).

The Samsung UN55KS8000 is our top pick for the best value 4K UHD gaming TV. It’s simply so good and we’ll let the customer reviews speak for themselves. All in all, it is the best 4K TV for gaming at this price level and since 4K is a must-have today, it is also one of the best TVs for gaming 2016.

Okay, so you want OLED and 4K as well? We definitely try this combination if you have the means for it. 4K is the future of gaming and console gaming as well since the PlayStation Neo and XBOX Scorpio will support 4K gaming. OLED will also boost the visual quality by a wide margin, so you should go after that as well if the budget supports it. Also, HDR (High-Dynamic Range) is a feature that many gamers are discussing these days. If you wondering if HDR is worth it on your gaming TV, then the answer is definitely yes. It makes all the images look much brighter and vivid. It is certainly a great thing to have an HDR gaming TV in 2016 and 2017 for your PC and console gaming experiences. The LG OLED55E6P and also the Samsung UN55KS8000 support HDR, so don’t worry about that.

The best OLED 4K TV for gaming is definitely the LG OLED55E6P. LG was on the forefront to bring OLED to consumers and this has resulted in them being the best in terms of quality and price range as well. We have no words, the LG OLED55E6p is simply stunning! We highly recommend this UHD OLED TV to any gamer and we believe it is the best TV to play PS4 and XBOX One on. This also applies to the new PS4 Pro and XBOX One S.

Top Gaming TV for the Money (Top TV for Gaming Under $1000)

A 4K TV is currently the best investment right now, but if you don’t want that, here are the best value gaming TVs out there without 4K resolution.

This model represents Vizio’s development of display panels which feature some of the clearest visual quality available. It’s remarkable that for a price under a thousand dollars, you can readily find a high-performing set like this with Full-HD 1080p resolution and 120 Hz refresh rates.

All of Vizio’s E-series notably offer local dimming capability which enables a higher level of display performance. Deeper black level models perform with hardly any bloom artifacts, while the display’s clarity under bright-lit conditions is also impressive.

Gaming-mode operation can also be enabled to considerably reduce input lags and thus avoid delayed responses which badly undermine gameplay. Several smart-TV features with numerous added functions such as integrated Wi-Fi and digital audio optical connections make this a superb choice for gaming that can also serve other needs.

Features

Full-HD 1080p with local-dimming

120 Hz refresh rate modes

Large and dynamic full-array LED display

Integrated wireless networking

Smart-TV support for internet-ready apps

60-inch model features 4 HDMI connections

Why you should consider the Vizio E600i-B3 gaming TV

This model is unexpectedly low-priced given that it offers one of the finest gaming screens available. It features just about everything you might need and desire in a TV that’s good for gaming consoles. Its display may not match the quality of far more expensive models, but it’s not likely that you’d be able to see a difference anyway.

If you need a big TV with an excellent display and internet-ready features that can nicely complement the looks of your living room, these 55-inch models should fill the need. If you are looking for the best TV for gaming PC then VIZIO is a good brand to look at.

First of all, it has a very slim bezel which provides a near-borderless appearance suitable to any room decor. But more than this, the low-lag operation will a boon if you’re aching for responsive gaming. You will also enjoy detailed images with superb contrast due to its Active Pixel-Tuning system, which enables automatic adjustments of pixel brightness for the clearest and most natural-looking images during gameplay.

Its panel’s 32-zone matrix LED backlighting provides deeper black levels and more consistent-lit images. And the high 240 Hz refresh rates and Clear Action fast-motion 720p processing helps to lessen blurry and jagged screen artifacts in action or videos or game titles with lots of fast scenes.

Features

Full-HD 1080p

240 Hz refresh rate

Large 32-zone dynamic LED display

Active Pixel-Tuning delivers superb clarity and contrast

Clear Action fast-motion 720p processing

Slim bezels present a near-borderless look

Smart-TV support for internet-ready apps

Why you should consider the Vizio M552i-B2 TV

This model’s reduced input lag will help you avoid delayed responses which will ruin gameplay, and its superb images will fit the needs of most gamers playing on next-generation consoles. It’s slim and polished and near-borderless design should fit nicely with the looks of any living room. Simply one of, if not the best TV for XBOX One 2016.

Best Sony TV for Gaming

Sony recommends a TV of at least 60-inches and above for the optimal gaming experience on the PlayStation 4 Pro (PS4 Pro). Sony’s best TVs have long been among the most extraordinary models which can be nicely optimized for gaming. As the firm is behind the PlayStation platform and its many game titles, it shouldn’t surprise you that they’d know all about producing enjoyable gameplay experiences on their displays.

The W850B TV series represents that heritage, and its models are regarded as among the best matches for PlayStation as well as Xbox consoles. This particular version boasts an average input lag below 25 milliseconds, which is among the lowest you’ll find currently. You won’t be worrying about delayed responses undermining your frenzied gaming sessions with this TV.

There are a few others with input latencies below 20 milliseconds, but this TV’s performance is more than good enough to please most gamers. Both 60- and 70-inch models feature Full-HD 1080p resolutions, 120 Hz refresh rates, four HDMI ports, 3D-ready and smart-TV features, as well as powerful integrated speaker systems. Image quality as impressive and the other features should meet your every entertainment need, particularly if you play on PS4s.

Features

Full-HD 1080p

120 Hz refresh rate modes

Large Edge-lit LED display

Comparatively low input lag

Fast-motion processing

3D-ready

Smart-TV support for full browsing and internet-ready apps like Skype or Twitter

Numerous connections including 2 USB and 4 HDMI and a single MHL port

A truly cool feature of this model is native Dualshock4 compatibility. Owners of PS4s can pair any of these controllers with this TV, which can then be used for navigating apps and settings. For XBOX users, if you need to play XBOX 360 on 4K TV, then you’re out of luck as it is not supported. It is only supported by XBOX One and XBOX One S (and future generations). If you’re willing to forego a little screen area, this slightly smaller model can be had for a much lower cost than Sony’s larger KDL-70W850B (2014 model).

Why you should consider the Sony KDL75W850C

This series’ comparatively low input latencies and excellent performance make these great choices for owners of PS4s and Xboxes, particularly those who play with DualShock4 controllers.

Sony’s higher-end TVs have long been known for their advanced features and quality displays, and the W850B Series’ compatibility with Sony’s own gaming consoles offers additional conveniences which others cannot match. With all these qualities going for it, this model represents great value for money, especially for PlayStation owners.

Top Overall TV for Gaming

There aren’t many TVs which can match the performance of this model when used with PS4s or other consoles. It features a 4K Ultra HD (UHD) panel which features a high 240 Hz refresh rate, advanced fast-motion processing modes, and local-dimming LED arrays which all contribute towards producing the smoothest and sharpest images.

The unique feature of this model is its curved big-screen display. It may not suit everybody, but many viewers feel it brings a panoramic feeling sense to most scenes. The display panel’s very low millisecond input lag is good enough for responsive gameplay, and its advanced local dimming mechanism works to smoothly enhance contrasts and generates more intense colors which will enrich any scene.

This model is 3D-ready and comes with numerous features for greater flexibility, such as multiple HDMI and USB connections. In addition, its smart-TV functions run on a fast quad-core CPU for fluid internet browsing and apps. To be sure, this is a seriously well-engineered set with an equally serious price. It will bring your experience of games and videos to levels you’ve likely never enjoyed before. Simply one of the greater and best gaming TVs for PS4.

Features

4k Ultra HD resolution with local-dimming

240Hz refresh rate models

Curved panoramic screen

Fast-motion processing

3D-readye

Smart-TV support for full browsing and internet-ready apps

Plenty of ports: 4 HDMI 2.0, 3 USB, 2 Composite, 1 Component

Easy-to-use remote

Why you should consider the Samsung UN65JU7500

Its average input latency may not be as low as that of other high-end models, but it’s likely more than good enough to please most users. Just as importantly, it has all the premium features and more that you’d require of a high-end, 3D-ready TV. The advanced micro-dimming modes and its uniquely curved display should help immerse you even further into your most graphically-intensive games. There isn’t a gamer who wouldn’t spring for the 65-inch model if he could, but less pricey 48-inch and 55-inch versions are available if you’re on a budget. We think this is one of the best gaming TV for XBOX One (including XBOX ONE S).

This is a superb choice for console gamers who demand great image quality, due to the increased clarity and brilliance of its Full-HD 1080p display coupled with direct-LED backlighting. Complex, as well as fast-moving scenes, are all smoothly yet sharply detailed by the advanced processing system, bringing to gamers a level of visual performance which few of its HDTV competitors can match.

One good thing about the LG 65UH6150 is a large number of different-sized screens on offer, with 55-inch, 60-inch, and best of all, 65-inch models available. Each and every unit features a remarkable number of connections, with 1 USB, 3 HDMI, and one each of RF, Component, Composite, Digital Optical Audio out, PC-Audio, Ethernet, and Headphone ports providing great flexibility for the 65-inch version.

The leading image quality and the availability of different-sized screens merits the range a serious look by any gamer. For those on a budget, the smaller versions in this series sport reasonable prices, which can make for some smart buys. We think this is the best 4K TV for gaming 2016 and we hope you think the same, if you choose to get it based on our professional recommendation.

Features

4K Ultra HD resolution

120Hz refresh rate

IPS panel

HDR Pro (High-Dynamic Range)

Fast-motion processing

Smart-TV support for full browsing and internet-ready apps (webOS 3.0)

Numerous and varied connections

Why you should consider the LG Electronics 65UH6150 gaming TV

There aren’t many TV model lines which offer such a large number of differently-sized and highly flexible options, and all here are worthy of your serious consideration. These feature some of the highest-quality LED screens available, and several of the smaller models represent outstanding value. The support for 120Hz, 4K and HDR makes this a no-brainer for people looking for Ultra HD TVs for gaming.

Best OLED Gaming TV

If you don’t want 4K resolution (I couldn’t understand why), then check the following OLED TVs, which are very appropriate for gaming.

The market in OLED HDTVs isn’t yet crawling with competing brands, but it’s no surprise that LG Electronics has been dominating this segment lately. This model is among the finest OLED TVs available to consumers who are searching for a display to complement the graphical power of their next-generation gaming consoles and PCs.

You’ll readily appreciate its ability to produce amazingly silky scenes with highly-responsive elements. This is due to the continual rendering of near-infinite contrast ratios, which results in an unrivaled depth of perception and fidelity. White sub-pixels integrate with the standard RGB cluster to greatly enhance coloring and vibrancy in all kinds of scenes.

This superb OLED TV has a number of features which add much value. The easy-to-use webOS 3.0 UI integrates the smart-TV features with the use of the included Magic remote. And like the Samsung, this model has a curved big-screen display and 3D-ready support which together can provide for intensive experiences of great immersion.

Features

4K Ultra HD resolution with Leading OLED image quality

OLED increased depth of perception and fidelity

Smooth, near-infinite contrast ratios

Flat panoramic screen

Cinema 3D

Intuitive webOS 3.0 interface for readily-accessible content

Smart-TV support for full browsing and internet-ready apps

Advanced Magic remote with smart-TV functions

Why you should consider the LG OLED55B6P

The incredible quality, rich color palette, and deeper blacks of this technology can make intense games come alive in ways that just aren’t possible with conventional stuff. Big-screened OLED displays simply deliver the ultimate visual experience. These TVs still command princely prices, although becoming cheaper as the days goes by, but If you’ll be a hardcore gamer for the rest of your days, these are in your future. The price of this stunning OLED TV is under $2000, although it might have changed when you check it out.

Best Gaming TV 2016 – Buyer’s Guide

If you are on the hunt for the best TV for gaming on a console device, which most of you are, we included this buyer’s guide to aid you in the process of choosing the best TV for XBOX One or the best TV for PlayStation 4.

Finding the best console gaming TV

Many of you have arrived here searching for informative details on TVs for gamers. Some of you are mainly into casual games and may not pay much attention to graphically-intensive titles. Others play demanding shooter and battle arena games, and might have opinions about certain popular models but aren’t certain of them. But like us, most of you surely wish to pick the best model for your own needs.

Not even gaming veterans would know all about every tech feature which can level up their gaming experiences. So if you’re thinking of buying a new TV to complement your XBox or PS4 or another game console in function and style, chances are you’ll be researching the subject a lot and going out on tiring trips to try various models. We hoped to make the process simpler and more convenient by gathering everything we’ve learned and tried about gaming displays into this buying guide.

Here are a few considerations you should go over when selecting a TV that’s good for gamers.

Look for a TV which consistently displays in-game movements in immediate response (i.e. with very little lag) to your control inputs.

Find out if it has a Gaming-Mode” feature which enables more responsive inputs. Note that this is not the same as “game” picture settings which enable sharper and brighter images. This isn’t always necessary, but it’s nice to have the option when needed.

The set must be capable of displaying static gaming imagery for prolonged intervals without issues, such as HUD and aiming graphics, mini-maps, and info panels, and also for long stretches of time when players are idle.

Check for protective measures against burn-in on models you are short-listing.

Ensure that it’s HD-ready at a minimum to support earlier-generation consoles such as Xbox 360s and PS3s.

Make certain that the TV features Full-HD 1080p resolutions which complement the latest XBox, PlayStation, and Wii consoles.

That last requirement is vital for a demanding gamer. Remember that Xbox 360s, Wiis, and PS3 connect to older Component-type ports, while the latest Xbox Ones, PS4s, and Wii Us are designed to interconnect to the HDMI ports found on newer TVs and display monitors. You will be unable to use a next-generation console with an HDTV if the latter lacks these connections.

Also check that the model you’re looking at has several HDMI connections, especially if you plan to use more than one new console with it. You won’t then need to constantly swap a single connection between the units, which can be particularly annoying if you must have a cable or satellite service box continually connected as well.

What to consider when choosing a gaming TV

Many buyers unfamiliar with the market tend to choose models improperly. Be sure to check this site for more information before you make your gaming TV purchase.

Some quickly choose models which are stylish and reasonably-sized.

Others yield to the lowest-cost model offering just enough quality to meet their current needs.

And then there are the walk-in buyers who lazily rely on what sales reps tell them.

These are risky ways of selecting a TV for use by gamers, as there are just too many aspects where a lack or a deficiency can unnecessarily degrade the gaming experience.

The FPS gamers among you who are into hardcore titles in the Battlefield, Call of Duty, or Halo series will know that these kinds of games demand millisecond-level responses for players to be successful. The lag in inputs generated by the image processing is among the factors that really impact responsiveness during play.

Input latency

This type of latency or lag describes the feedback effect of the delays introduced between the receipt of video signals by the TV’s processor and the display of the video images generated from those signals, as measured in milliseconds.

The majority of gamers rarely notice input lags in most games, as a micro-lag here or there doesn’t usually affect most kinds of gameplay. But if you’re into fast-moving stuff which demands rapid reflex and input actions to win, then these signaling delays may cripple your ability to play at your best. In many FPS and fighter games, the average level of input latency can determine whether you prevail handily or get badly fragged, particularly in multiplayer battles which can involve net code issues as well. Many TVs feature Gaming-Mode operation which works to lessen the incidence of input lags during intense games.

Picture burn-in

Picture burn-in occurs whenever images on screens remain static in time for too long, which if extended enough can result in lasting damages in those areas.

With certain display types, too long a pause in video and game sessions, stationary network or device splash screens, and other graphic elements left to display statically can lead to hazy shapes or ghostlike images being impressed on screens. With such models, even channel changes or powering off will not always stop such still images from being retained and impairing the overall display quality. In these rare instances, it would seem that such screens have suffered “burned-in” images, which can become permanent in the worst case.

It’s a good thing that current TV display technologies are less prone to this issue, due to their integration of anti-image-retention systems. The screens on older-generation models can be more vulnerable to burn-ins than modern ones, especially those based on older display technologies like Plasma and CRT.

Modern LCD-based displays can still undergo a similar but shorter-term effect known as image persistence, which differs from full burn-ins in that these aren’t permanently retained. Thus long-term image persistence on LCD screens is unusual, with full burn-ins even more so, but there’s still a tiny risk to LCD and OLED display types.

Even though current TV models feature mechanisms which reduce these risks, you might still want to follow anti-burn-in best practices just to be sure.

Do screen sizes make a difference in gaming?

If you’ve been searching for a TV to complement your gaming console, you may have gone through many models of various sizes. You’re probably wondering if the size of the screen makes a big difference in the enjoyment of games, and whether you should get a larger TV.

If you’re thinking: Is a 4K TV good for gaming? The simple answer is yes. It will look much better on a 4K TV than an HDTV.

The majority of users if asked would say a bigger screen is usually better, so long as the quality and features are good. The average input lag, in particular, must be low, or your gaming will suffer from less responsive control feedback. With these in mind, you should try to get the largest model that will fit in the space you’ve planned for it. Bigger screens show more detail, and you’re less likely to notice problems with display resolutions if you’re playing a little up close. These will bring you a more immersive and fun experience which the smaller screens just can’t match.

Screen sizes and budget considerations

It’s usually a good idea to start by budgeting what you can afford. Then choose a model according to its capacity for better console gaming first, with a larger screen size your second critical consideration. If your budget is on the low side, you’ll have a harder time picking a TV that’s good for gaming. Spending a bit more can net you good ones with screens as large as 70 inches, and you’d do well to set aside between $600 and $1,300 for one of the larger models with mid-range specifications.

A model in the 40-inch range is the smallest you should consider, for you’ll need to move closer to a tinier screen to play comfortably. The sweet spot would probably be around 55 inches or so, as this size suits most rooms, and many choices are available. It’s also easy to find inexpensive stands or mounts which can handle the weight and dimensions.

Basic TV accessories for gamers

If you decided on a good gaming TV, then you will most likely also need a good set of TV accessories for it as well. Below are some basic accessories for your gaming TV that most of you should have.

Wired connections

You should check to see if your new unit arrives with all that’s needed to set up a good gaming station. Assuming your TV has several ports, you’ll need at least one HDMI 1.4 or 2.x cable for each modern console you’re planning to connect. The latest-generation PlayStation, Xbox, and Wii consoles include these types of cables, while older Xbox 360s and PS3s can only connect with component or composite video cables. You should also make sure that there’s a stereo audio cable to connect any surround or stereo sound system you may already have.

One smart option is to install an HDMI switch to share a single connection on the TV between two or more consoles. This arrangement frees up the other HDMI connections for the cable/satellite box and other non-console media gear such as PCs and Macs, Blu-ray players, and wired audio receivers. You can also connect your TV to a good Android TV box if you wish to do so.

HDMI cable performance

Be wary of the electronics store guy who tries to convince you that a super HDMI cable costing $50 or more can “upgrade” your TV’s image quality. These ultra-high-end cables hardly differ in actual image quality from that of regular brands, which normally deliver performance to the same unvarying digital specifications anyway.

That said, premium or store-brand cables that are priced slightly higher can have certain advantages over the cheapest no-name stuff, such as:

Greater durability and longer-lasting construction

More flexible jackets to better follow twisty paths

More reliable media connections with fewer signal drops over time

If you’re installing very long runs of cable, it pays to put in higher-quality cabling that’s better at keeping signals from degrading across the distance. Gold-tipped plugs and adapters also provide for more solid connections, particularly along long sections with extension cables and/or in-line couplers. And for the effort you’ll be putting in, you might as well pay a little more for cables from reputable brands.

Surround headset for your gaming TV

As a gamer, you already know you’ll be plugging in a wired or wireless gaming headset. You’ll want to enjoy that great combo of surround-sound and big-screen gaming which your new TV’s audio system can’t supply by itself. With this setup, you’ll be able to enjoy a 7.1 surround-sound environment while you zone into your game, and avoid disturbing family members, visiting friends, and cranky neighbors late into the night.

How to maintain and safeguard your TV

Purchasing a big new TV can involve quite an outlay these days. You wouldn’t want to see your spending wasted on an old or lowly model, as your next set should bring you many years of gaming and video enjoyment. And you wouldn’t want a nice-looking model that’s manufactured so poorly that it degrades or stops running soon after you’ve set it up.

Maintenance and safety guidelines

Maintaining a modern TV isn’t that difficult. Follow these preventive and care guidelines, and your new TV should stay in good condition for years. A tip: Mounting your display securely can keep it from being readily damaged or from causing harm.

Protect your TV by plugging it into a surge-protected power strip.

Wipe dust off the case and display often.

Avoid using abrasive cleaning solutions on the display.

Use mounts and/or straps and wires to securely anchor the TV.

Routines, like using a surge-protection devices or wiping down the display, can help avoid many problems. If you have kids around the house, particularly one who’s prone to grabbing and pushing stuff, mounting and strapping down the unit or anchoring it to the wall or table will bring you more peace of mind. For if you leave the unit standing freely, there’s always the risk that energized kids might topple your expensive new set. Mounting and anchoring it well will help avert that possibility and also help keep your kids safe from accidental harm or stress.

Proper screen cleaners for your TV

We’ve previously said that routine cleaning and protections will help to keep your TV in good working order for many years to come. Among the easier things you can do is keep its display clean. Removing dust and grime with a cloth or display wipe instead of strong chemical solutions will not only help maintain its brightness and clarity, it reduces the chances of the surface getting scraped or discolored. You could also try some specialized screen-cleaning kits if you’re serious about maintaining the screen in perfect condition.

Ways to prevent image burn-ins

The first few hundred hours of operation is when a TV may be most exposed to picture burn-ins or image persistence, depending on the panel technology and the content in use. You can best protect it from these mishaps by heeding these guidelines:

Maintain contrast ratio at 50% or lower during first few hundred hours of use.

Enable the TV’s screen saver themes if available.

Set the TV to automatically shut down when idle.

Limit your viewing of letterboxed videos during first few hundred hours of use.

Limit the length of gaming sessions with static graphics like maps and HUD elements.

Then again, your new model would likely have operating features which mitigate these problems, which were more prevalent with older equipment. It isn’t critical to religiously adhere to these rules with modern units. But they can help keep worries away, and nothing we’ve advised could cause any damage and just might benefit you.

Still, if persistent burn-in/ghosting does happen, there’s no need to sound alarms, you’d do fine just be continuing to watch varied shows and movies. As you move from channel to channel or alternate between various game sessions, such unwanted screen artifacts will eventually vanish in a few hours.

Although permanent burn-ins sound scary, bear in mind that these old issues have been mostly resolved with newer display technologies. What does happen is the usual momentary retention or persistence of images, which are normal occurrences which usually resolve over time and which you don’t really need to concern yourself with.

Consider extending the TV’s warranty

You’ll surely do what you can to maintain your unit well and protect it from damage. But these things can happen, especially if you have accident-prone kids moving about. In this case, it may be worthwhile to extend or supplement the warranty coverage and terms of your new purchase.

You’ll have to determine whether the warranty covers damages from accidents as well as incidents like burn-ins. Certain brands treat these things as the owner’s responsibility and will not provide coverage. In some cases, damages from accidents might not be fully covered.

Here are some questions to help ease you into researching extended warranties and their details.

Which parts have warranty coverage, and how long would it be?

What company will actually service the extended coverage?

Are they a trustworthy firm with a customer orientation?

Do they provide service directly to customers?

Will a technician be sent over to my address to fix major breakdowns?

Does the firm replace troublesome TVs which can’t be repaired?

It’s good to have the answers to these questions as you’ll likely be maintaining your TV for years. You’ll be wise to go over the details in the warranty terms to establish what is covered and what isn’t. Buyers are normally offered the option to buy extended warranties which lengthen coverage or add extra protections against incidents which the manufacturer doesn’t recognize.